Preparations begin for NJCU American Dream Gala on Ellis Island

Surrounded by history, workers have begun preparations for what will surely be a historic night on Ellis Island as the New Jersey City University Foundation will host the American Dream Gala tonight, honoring three New Jersey philanthropists.

The workers are preparing The Great Room in the main building on the island while guests have already begun to step onto boats headed for the island from Liberty State Park.

The event, which is scheduled to begin with a reception at 7 p.m., will recognize former Rep. Frank Guarini, Chairman of Amneal Pharmaceuticals Chirag Patel and President of Automatic Data Processing Inc. Carlos Rodriguez.

Ellis Island was chosen for the event due to its history as the start of millions of American Dreams and its relation to the school's vision.

"When we thought about doing our gala, it was immediately obvious to have it on Ellis Island," NJCU President Sue Henderson told The Jersey Journal. "It's the place where many people got their start in the United States and we've always thought of NJCU as our very own American Dream machine."

The gala will benefit scholarship funds at the university, which includes students from 50 nations among its 8,400-member student body.

Henderson praised the honorees for their persistence and determination.

"All three (honorees) are testaments to what hard work and vision can accomplish," Henderson said. "They put a high value on education and have worked tirelessly to help others achieve their own American Dreams."

The gala will start with a reception at 7 p.m., followed by dinner at 8 p.m. Sponsors for the gala include Diversity Inc., ADP Inc., The Jersey City Medical Center, The Jersey Journal and others.